How to restore MSSQL 2012 Database server OS crashed, data drive ok

You should be able to just import the databases: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/previous-versions/sql/sql-server-2012/ms140052(v=sql.110) explains

can't you just attach your database: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sql/relational-databases/databases/attach-a-database?view=sql-server-2017

import will not work no selection for mdf file.  I need to restore the master database so i can reattach the other databses. All I have is the master.mdf and log no backups.

Attached database will not work because the database's were not detached or clean shutdown. I need to get the master restored in order to keep the security and users settings. Only the OS drive crashed. The data drive is ok. The mssql was installed on C: drive and the data was stored on E: drive. I wonder if I renstall the MSSQL and point the database install to be in the original location. shutdown database and copy the master mdf restart would work?

When you install the new SQL Server instance, give the exact name as the old one and provide a temporary E: drive where the setup will create the new system files (don't forget to provide the exact path as it is in the original database files location).
After SQL Server installation completed successfully, stop SQL Server service, remove temporary E: drive and attach the original E: drive. Do not forget to give the same drive letter. When done, just restart SQL Server as it should find the system database files in the same location as when it was installed.

Is this issue solved or do you need more help to solve it?